The American Red Cross encourages eligible blood donors to make and keep donation appointments to maintain the summer blood supply and help prevent a shortage.

Donors of all blood types are currently needed, especially those with type O negative, B negative and A negative.

Two local blood drives will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at New Canaan Library, 151 Main St., New Canaan, and from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at the Darien Masonic Lodge, 354 Post Road, Darien.

A blood donor card or driver's license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.